Vitor Belfort gave his final in-Octagon post-fight speech at UFC 224 on Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

“The Phenom” fought the final fight of his UFC contract, and likely the final fight of his career, opposite Lyoto Machida. He lost the bout via a blistering front-kick knockout, but at least he got to go out in front of his hometown fans and against a man for whom he has a lot of respect.

“Life is about beginning, middle, and end, and I think I come to the end, so congratulations to Machida and I’m leaving my gloves here,” Belfort once he had regained his senses following the fight.

“So, I want to thank you all, my family, I’m all right. Lyoto had a great night,” he continued. “I think it’s time for me to take care of my family and my endeavors.”

Belfort began his career more than two decades ago, and entered the Octagon in only the second fight of his career. He quickly made a name for himself by defeating the likes of Tra Telligman, Tank Abbott, and Wanderlei Silva early on.

Belfort won the heavyweight tournament at UFC 12 and went on to become the UFC light heavyweight champion. His 22-year career spanned numerous stints with the UFC, as well as Pride, SuperBrawl, Cage Rage, Strikeforce, and Affliction.

Belfort ends his career at 41 years of age with an overall record of 26-14 with 1 no contest.